Give Wales a local speciality burger
FOOD giant McDonald’s is being challenged to think locally and create a Welsh Lamb burger.
The fast food chain already promotes a host of country-specific products around the world, from Jamaican chicken burgers to tzatziki wraps in Croatia.
Llyr Gruffydd, Plaid Cymru’s North Wales AM, believes McDonald’s can play an important role in finding new markets for Welsh Lamb once Britain leaves the EU
He said: “My request to McDonald’s is simple – given the quality and recognition for Welsh Lamb, why not promote a Welsh Lamb burger as part of this range of localised foods?
“There are 89 McDonald’s outlets in Wales that would surely stock a Welsh Lamb product.
“I’m sure it could work in outlets across the border too, given the popularity of Welsh Lamb.”
Meat marketing body Hybu Cig Cymru is keen to position PGI Welsh Lamb as a premium product but it accepts that all potential markets must be explored to maximise carcase utilisation.
McDonald’s is already a major outlet for UK agricultural produce and Mr Gruffydd said including Welsh Lamb in its roster of products was a natural progression.
As well as supporting Welsh hill farmers, such a move would introduce Welsh Lamb to a new clientele and enhance McDonald’s buy-local credentials, he insisted.
“We know that McDonald’s is a global brand and, whatever we think of it, it’s an important part of the fast-food industry,” said Mr Gruffydd.
“And, although it has a global product, within that brand it also reflects local dietary preferences and national dishes.
“That means you can get a gazpacho soup in Spain and a Samurai Pork burger in Thailand as well as a McPaneer Royale in India.”
McDonald’s, which in recent weeks has been grappling with a shortage of UK bacon, said it doesn’t have any plans to introduce a lamb burger to its UK menu.
But a spokesman added: “We are proud to continue to support British and Irish farmers who supply 100% of our beef.” ● Shrimp burger - Korea ● Georgie Pie - New Zealand ● Greek Mac - Greece ● McRice burger - Asia ● McKroket patty - Netherlands